Creating A Built Environment For Children

A new school master plan for the Western International School of Shanghai looks to create an entire urban environment geared toward children.

1 minute read

March 15, 2007, 6:00 AM PDT

By Nate Berg


"In the second phase of its construction to be started next month, Andreas Reich, chief architect of Weimar Architects AG, has covered the 6.4-hectare area with not only multifunctional school facilities but also exquisite plazas, dainty Chinese gardens and natural landscapes along the lake traversing the campus."

"'It's just like a small town for children,' Reich said while showcasing the school's master plan."

"'Our idea was not to build one big building like those sterile, boring office towers we often see downtown and not a building solo on the landscape but a whole environment.'"

"In the new construction, natural daylight will stream through the floor-to-ceiling windows with simple, clean lines, creating a modern airy feel; the school is in a quiet place in perfect harmony with the surrounding picturesque suburban scenery, secure from the hustle and bustle of the outside world."

Wednesday, March 14, 2007 in Shanghai Daily

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